Just some views on Cape Verde, as requested, although they will be fairly limited as my back is screwed and will probably need an operation I've been putting off when I get back! This has meant that I've not been able to walk out of the hotel or do any trips... Our hotel (Riu Palace Santa Maria), is really large with great pools and food/drink options. Totally happy with the buffet restaurant for all meals, as it suits the whole family. If there is anything you could think of wanting for breakfast then the chances are they have it. The location is good as it's close to the town of Santa Maria, which people have said is a colourful place with plenty of decent food options. Also, the beach usually has a yellow flag and the waves are high (which I prefer). Sal sounds a better bet for this than Boa Vista. This does mean that snorkelling is a bit tricky. We went out with full face masks on but had all three swept off our faces by waves. Fortunately, the lifeguards somehow managed to find them all! The place has a real Caribbean vibe to it, which I like. And all of the locals I have come across appear to be genuinely lovely, which has been one of the highlights, I think. We may do the full Island Tour on a jeep if my back troubles improve, so I'll put it on here if I do.
Tbf my back isn't where the pain is, it's the nerves in my left leg that gives me gip, though it does feel like the travelling has taken its toll.
Thanks for that. Must be very hot there this time of year. But sciatica ain't fun no matter where you are.
No worries mate, it actually eased off last night, so that was nice. The weather is late 20's, and a bit cloudy, which is fine by me.
We always go with TUI for packages and they're well-established here. There's a rep available all day, if needed. A longer flight but comfortable enough. I don't think you'd go too far wrong if the price is decent. We got the recommended vaccinations we needed, though it cost a fair bit as we booked quite last minute. They are free on the NHS if you can get them sorted a couple of months prior.
Ah! Thank you, that’s one thing I never thought of, vaccinations. I was looking at a Riu in Boa Vista, which looked really good, but according to reports, it’s falling to pieces, are you happy with your place?
Yeah, very happy. The service and standards, are the best we've experienced as a family, and everything at the hotel is in great condition. I've barely been in a queue for food or drink due to the vast amount of options for both. The pools are great and there's even a waterpark on-site, which has become a bit of a priority for us. So, alongside having optics in the room and swim-up bars just for adults, pretty much everyone is covered.
Went to Reeth show today, no idea how those country lads walk about in full country regalia while it’s as hot as that. We were there 9.30-12 and it was already melting. Some cracking food though.
